Multilateration System (MLAT)
The Institute of Flight Guidance operates a multilateration system (MLAT) at Braunschweig Wolfsburg Airport for the direction finding of transmitted radio signals. The MLAT system complements the MLAT system operated at the DLR site in Cochstedt to form a Wide Area Multilateration System (WAM). The system, which is operated for research and training purposes, offers a unique test environment via various interfaces and protocols.
In modern aviation, it is essential for air traffic control to know the position and altitude of aircraft in controlled airspace. The position data transmitted by the aircraft every second (ADS-B) is used for this purpose. Furthermore, air traffic control detects the aircraft using primary and secondary radar. For various reasons, not all aircraft transmit position data. On approach and on the ground, this can lead to dangerous encounters or even collisions. MLAT and WAM systems can determine the positions of non-cooperative aircraft and thus increase safety.
MLAT and WAM utilise the signal propagation times of transponder responses received from several ground stations to determine the position of an aircraft. It is based on the principle of transit time difference and supports other systems for close-range and ground surveillance in the airport area. These enable highly accurate monitoring of arrivals and departures as well as taxiing traffic.
DLR has set itself the goal of testing new technologies and, with the test environment, provides researchers with an opportunity to test such technologies at an operational commercial airport. Pupils and students also use the facility as part of their training.